Who We Are
The Marks JCH of Bensonhurst, known as the JCH, is a center of community life in Brooklyn, rooted in Jewish values and fostering an inclusive environment. We help at every life stage, providing critical services that lift people out of poverty, as well as innovative programing that educates and inspires our community members. The Marks JCH is a full-scale human service agency, providing social services, older adult services, resettlement support, job placement in addition to being a Jewish community center offering children’s, youth, family, and cultural programs. Marks JCH prides itself on its 360-degree holistic service model, providing services for the whole family, meeting the needs of low- and moderate-income New Yorkers, specializing in helping refugees and immigrants.
Department Overview
Marks JCH Department of Social Services team offers a broad spectrum of support designed to help members of vulnerable communities maintain independence, connect with needed resources, and foster meaningful social relationships. Social Services staff play a critical role across the organization, providing expert consultation as client needs emerge. The department’s comprehensive services include older adults' programs such as the DFTA-funded Senior Center, a Neighborhood NORC, and Holocaust Survivor Center; a Case Management, Information & Referral Unit including resettlement services. Inspired by Jewish Values, these programs create a holistic framework for stabilizing family units and empowering our clients to thrive.
Position Summary
The Director of Social Services is an experienced, visionary leader who is part of the senior management team and oversees a diverse portfolio of client-centered programs. Reporting to the COO, this role provides strategic direction, clinical expertise, and operational oversight to ensure the highest standards of service delivery. The Director plays a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission and fostering innovative program opportunities that meet the evolving needs of the community.
The ideal candidate is a licensed social worker (LMSW) with a proven track record in leadership, program management, and staff supervision. They possess strategic reasoning and problem-solving ability as well as a collaborative approach to team building. Direct experience with community-based services and Russian-English bilingual proficiency are required.
This is a full-time position located in Brooklyn, NY that offers competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Team Development
- Lead a multidisciplinary team of approximately 15 staff members, providing expert case supervision and fostering professional growth.
- Collaborate with senior management and interdepartmental teams to enhance program design, refine organizational protocols based on best practices, and identify opportunities for new programs and funding.
- Support staff across departments on concerns related to program participants, leveraging direct practice expertise and sound social work judgment.
Program Oversight & Enhancement
- Oversee a wide range of social services, including public benefits assistance, housing advocacy/support, immigration support, and Older Adult Programs
- Develop and implement policies, procedures, and protocols based on best practices and clinical standards, ensuring clarity in service delivery, internal and external referrals, and participant assessments.
- Use data-driven analysis to assess program deliverables and outcomes, collaborating with senior management to enhance impact measures and refine services.
- Collaborate with local schools of Social Work to serve as a placement for MSW interns.
- Develop professional training opportunities to ensure continuous staff development.
Resource Development & Community Engagement
- Prepare and manage departmental budgets, monitor funding compliance, and assist with grant writing and fundraising initiatives.
- Represent the organization at professional conferences and with multiple community partners to promote services and impact.
- Cultivate relationships with community leaders, service providers, and funders to enhance program reach and partnerships.
- Other responsibilities as assigned by supervisor
Qualifications
- Licensed Social Worker (LMSW) preferred; SIFI certification or willingness to obtain one
- Minimum of 3 years in a leadership role within social services, with strong administrative experience.
- Demonstrated expertise in program management, case assistance, and staff supervision.
- Exceptional interpersonal, analytical, and communication skills.
- Russian-English bilingual proficiency is required
- Commitment to advancing accessibility of service delivery for families in need.
This role is an exciting opportunity to lead with purpose, drive meaningful change, and make a lasting impact on the community.
This is an exempt position, and candidates can expect an annual salary between $90,000-$100,000, commensurate with skills and experience. Marks JCH is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate qualified candidates on basis of race, religion, political association, ancestry, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, socioeconomic class, or other protected status.